On an uncharacteristically ugly MCG mudheap the Demons shocked an Essendon side even less experienced than themselves.

The absence of Simon Madden left Stephen Smith to run riot in the ruck, and he saw off the Bombers starting ruckman quickly. Essendon played well in the second quarter but they were beaten across the other three with Essendon kicking just two goals in the entire second half.

The Demons could have won by more but even allowing for the slushy conditions they were wasteful with their kicking for goal.

Best were Wells, Norsworthy and Smith. The win lifted the Demons a game and percentage above Fitzroy on the bottom of the ladder.